This is definitely not a movie full of action and excitement. It is more so a mellow thriller (if there is such a thing). Another warning is that if you are expecting to watch a Jason Bourne or James Bond-style of movie then The American is not the movie for you. However, even with those factors not being involved I would still recommend it.
It can be noted that the advertising campaign and production photographs might give the impression that George Clooney is taking on a role in a movie similar to that of Liam Neeson did in that remarkable thriller Taken (2008).
Since this is not really an action picture and not really even a thriller it is what one may call a transfixing character study. After watching the film, one will learn not so much about George Clooney character's history, but more the integrity of him as a human being.
This film is what one might consider an exercise in the polarization of the audience. Its style of delivery is defintely one that you cannot forget.
The fact that Clooney does not have that much dialog actually has the audience reading his body language more and not expecting his words. He does so much more with his eyebrows as he does his mouth. While Clooney could have easily beat the audience into submission with plot points, instead the delivery is below the surface. As the saying goes "Actions really do speak louder than words" and this movie is great place to showcase this phenomenon. Edward (Clooney) can't be sure of whom he can trust and his exchanges reflect this perfectly and the audience has to stay sharp in order to interpret his actions.
Once again this is not your typical "shoot-em-up" style hit-man movie, but more a view of an introspective and introverted nature of the main character. Put it like this, some movies simply aren't meant for everyone, and that's ok with me.
All in all, the casual viewer will probably want to wait for the Red Box on this one, however maybe they just might have a change of heart. The American can be considered a high art film that will leave you appreciating the technique, and then perhaps maybe this film will be more to your liking.
Rating: 2.5 stars out of 4
